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New Delhi, 23 January 2024, Tuesday

Malaria is a deadly mosquito-borne disease that kills millions of people every year, especially in Africa. Cameroon has now launched the world's first routine vaccination program to combat the disease, which is being hailed as a major step in the fight against malaria.

Cameroon will be the first country to administer the vaccine through a routine vaccination program. Initially, the vaccine will be administered to children in the 42 districts of Cameroon most affected by malaria. It is believed that this vaccine will save the lives of thousands of children across Africa. WHO estimates that this vaccine can save the lives of more than 4 lakh children every year.

This vaccination will be done with World Health Organization (WHO) approved RTS,S vaccine. It is developed by British drug maker GSK. Its successful pilot campaigns were carried out in Kenya, Ghana and Malawi before Cameroon.

An important milestone in the fight against malaria

Minister of Health of Cameroon Dr. MANAOUDA Malachie called the launch of the vaccine program 'an important milestone in the fight against malaria'. He said, this vaccine is a powerful weapon for us to fight against this deadly disease. which ensures that every child has the opportunity to lead a healthy life.

However, it is important to note that the RTS,S vaccine is not 100% effective for malaria. It is helpful in preventing severe cases of malaria and reducing child mortality, but it cannot completely prevent infection.

What steps should be taken?

• Use a mosquito net
• Make sure that there is no water around the houses
• Along with other mosquito control measures, vaccination should be implemented

The vaccination program launched by Cameroon is a major victory in the fight against malaria. It is hoped that other African countries will also adopt this program and help reduce the burden of malaria across the continent.